Varsities push for online teaching in lockdown

LUCKNOW: The city-based higher education institutes are banking on online teaching to help students carry out their studies during 21-day national lockdown, imposed with an aim to contain coronavirus outbreak.

Lucknow University has taken the lead by asking teachers to upload course material on the official website, which can be accessed by students.

A 21-day lockdown across the country, starting from Wednesday, was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to check the spread of Covid-19 infection.

Teachers of some departments including vice chancellor (VC)

Alok Kumar Rai, who teaches marketing to MBA students, have already uploaded the e-course material on the website.

Durgesh Srivastav, spokesman of Lucknow University said, “The university is of the view that students who want to continue their studies in the lockdown should be able to do so. The e-course material, uploaded by teachers will help students ensure this.”

The uploaded e-courses include notes, diagrams and explainers, used by teachers in the classrooms and other elements.

Teachers have also been asked to remain available on phone to help students in their studies.

Teachers of Dr Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (BBAU) have also started trying hands on online teaching.

Govind Pandey of BBAU is experimenting with different ways of online teaching using You Tube. The WhatsApp video calling groups have also been made to share knowledge.

Since the lockdown is 21-day long, the department is now asking students to join Google classroom and WhatsApp group calling to discuss syllabus with other students. Online interaction has not only helping teachers connect with students but also proving very important platform of learning.

Teachers of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Technical University (AKTU) are promoting online classes through You Tube. Vice chancellor of AKTU Vinay Kumar Pathak organised a live session with teachers regarding this on Wednesday. Over 2000 teachers joined the live session. Teachers were asked to take such live sessions for students.

Several primary and secondary schools in the districts are also taking such measures to ensure online teaching.